I specialize in lifespan sensory, cognitive and neurological development. I am interested in the functional relationships between underlying brain structure, sensory integrity, plasticity, cognitive function and risk for disease, and the behaviors that promote cognitive vitality across the lifespan. I am also interested in developing novel methodologies for testing cognitive and sensory function in populations ranging from infancy through older adulthood.

My areas of expertise are in aging, nutrition, cognitive function, brain health, sensory function, cognitive training, lifespan development. 

I am currently working on several projects, one of which examines the role of improved nutritional status on cognitive function and neurological health, across the lifespan. This project includes nutritional intervention, dietary analysis, electrophysiological (EEG) measures, functional and structural MRI and DTI, behavioral measures of cognitive function, visual function testing and  blood nutritional measurement.

I am also developing novel technology for measuring visual, cognitive and neurological function in healthcare, eye care and home settings, and am working to understand the role of health literacy and physician support of patient autonomy. This project is being completed in partnership with the Piedmont Athens-Regional Community Care Clinic, the Medical College of Georgia UGA partnership, and the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University.

In 2008, I was awarded the Charles L. Darby Excellence in Teaching Award by the University of Georgia Psychology Department, and that same year I also received the Zimmer Award by the University of Georgia Neuroscience faculty for Excellence in Research.

Learn more about Lisa M. Renzi-Hammond. 

Lisa M. Renzi-Hammond, Ph.D.
Education: 
  • Postdoctoral Fellowship, Neuroscience/Nutrition Sciences/Perceptual Systems, University of Texas at Austin
  • Ph.D., Psychology/Neuroscience and Behavior, University of Georgia
  • M.S., Psychology/Neuroscience and Behavior, University of Georgia
  • B.S., Psychology, University of Georgia
Area of Study: 
Science
Department: 
Institute of Gerontology
Degree/Program: 
Graduate Certificate in Gerontology